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Form Forward is Toledo's effort to modernize the City's zoning code and implement the vision established in Forward Toledo. The project will create updated regulations and a new zoning map to support housing, neighborhood investment, economic development/small businesses, and sustainable growth.
Why Rewrite the Zoning Code Now?
This project builds on the work we did in Forward Toledo, a comprehensive land use strategy that sets Toledo’s planning goals for the next 10-20 years. The current zoning code, last updated in 2004, no longer aligns with the vision of Forward Toledo. This is the first step in implementing the Plan. Through the zoning code rewrite we can:
- Design walkable neighborhoods and create accessible opportunities through increasing connectivity to work and recreation.
- Create unique place by supporting a variety of home types
- Strengthen neighborhoods while addressing housing affordability
- Support business creation and diverse economies
- Promote recreational and social opportunities
- Position our city sustainably on the Water Belt
Form Forward is led by Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions and the City of Toledo and in partnership with a team led by Code Studio, a planning firm specializing in zoning.
How Can I Get Involved?
Public Events
These public events will include neighborhood listening sessions, coffee conversations with the team, focus groups with key populations that are often harder to reach, public workshops and open houses, and local pop-ups at community events to meet residents where they are.
Regular Communication
Website updates, monthly newsletters, social media, press releases, and news media will all be part of our engagement strategy. Subscribe and follow whichever channels suit you best.
Educational Opportunities
Stay tuned for information on webinars, public workshops, and other educational events.
Project Timeline
Fall 2026: Project Kickoff Period
- Zoning 101 Webinar
- Coffee conversations with the project team
Winter 2026 – Spring 2027: Pattern Analysis
Comparison of the current code with Toledo’s existing buildings to understand what needs to change. You can participate in:
- Public workshop to share your thoughts on our analysis
- Pop-up events
Summer – Fall 2027: First Draft of Code and Map
Presentation of the first draft of the new code and a map for feedback. This is a key moment in the project; you can get involved through:
- Public workshop
- Focus groups
- Online tools to leave feedback
- Pop-up events
Fall 2027: General Development Standards & Administrative Provisions
Create standards and provisions to determine how people will use the code. Engagement opportunities include:
- Office hours to speak with our team and ask questions
- Online tools to leave feedback
Winter 2027: Second Draft Code and Map
After incorporating community feedback, a second draft of the code/map. You can participate in:
- Public meeting to share final thoughts and hear next steps
- Office hours to speak with staff and ask questions
- Online tools to easily leave feedback on the map
Winter – Spring 2028: Adoption
Form Forward will be adopted in 2028.